Getting rid of things can be very challenging: What should you throw away? What should I keep? Oh, but I might need this someday ... You get the idea. It's very hard to decide what to throw out or keep, especially if it has sentimental value. One man's trash is another man's treasure!

Steps

1

Does the item have sentimental value? This is the most common question to ask when determining whether to keep it or toss it. If you will miss the item, don't throw it out! You might want to start a memory book, or digitize some photographs or memorable love letters or other documents if you want to get rid of paper clutter. If you won't miss it: Trash it!

2

Is the item important to document or keep for legal reasons?You should keep report cards, all bills, receipts, insurance/credit card papers, etc. You will also want to document any milestones, as well as birth/marriage/death certificates, diplomas, etc. If not: Trash it!

3

Determine if you frequently use the item. If you haven't touched it in over six months, it's probably safe to toss. However, you must consider the object: for example, it's okay if you haven't used the snow shovel for six months because it's October. If you don't use it: Trash it!

Some items, such as makeup, food/condiments, and medicine, have expiration dates. Make sure that you are aware of expiration dates: Don't use the item once it's gone bad.

4

Does the item have monetary value? If it does, you might want to pawn it off or sell it. If it doesn't: Trash it!